A client underwent abdominal surgery and is now at risk of developing peritonitis. The nurse teaches the client about the early signs and symptoms of peritonitis. What should the nurse include in the teaching?
Fever and diarrhea
Abdominal distension and flatulence
Nausea and vomiting
Sudden-onset severe abdominal pain and tenderness
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason:
Fever and diarrhea are not specific early signs of peritonitis.
Choice B reason:
Abdominal distension and flatulence may occur for various reasons after abdominal surgery, but they are not specific to peritonitis.
Choice C reason:
Nausea and vomiting can be caused by various post-operative factors and are not specific to peritonitis.
Choice D reason:
Sudden-onset severe abdominal pain and tenderness are classic early signs of peritonitis and indicate the need for immediate medical attention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Abdominal distension and decreased bowel sounds are classic signs of paralytic ileus, a common complication of peritonitis.
Choice B reason:
Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and may cause diarrhea and abdominal pain but is not related to the specific symptoms described.
Choice C reason:
Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix and is not related to abdominal distension and decreased bowel sounds.
Choice D reason:
Constipation may cause abdominal distension, but decreased bowel sounds are not characteristic of constipation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Referred pain is pain that is felt in a different location from its source, and it is not directly associated with the sharp, sudden-onset pain described by the client.
Choice B reason:
Visceral pain arises from the internal organs and is often described as sharp and colicky. It worsens with movement and is a characteristic feature of peritonitis.
Choice C reason:
Neuropathic pain is caused by nerve damage and is not typically associated with peritonitis.
Choice D reason:
Radiating pain is pain that extends from its source to other areas, and it is not specifically described in the scenario.
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